FG says improving nutrition central to human capital development, poverty reduction

The Federal Government says improving nutrition is central to human capital development and poverty reduction under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the present administration

Dr Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, said this on Thursday in Abuja, at the opening of the 2025 National Micronutrient Conference.

Our correspondent reports that the theme of the conference was “Strengthening Resilient Systems for Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies in Nigeria”.

Salako said that micronutrient deficiencies, often described as “hidden hunger,” remained a major impediment to Nigeria’s development, particularly among children, pregnant women and other vulnerable groups.

According to him, poor nutrition contributes to stunt growth, weak immunity, impaired cognitive development and reduced productivity, thereby perpetuating a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.

He cited findings from the 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey which showed that stunting remained at 40 per cent, wasting at eight per cent and underweight prevalence at 27 per cent among children aged six to 59 months.

“These statistics underscore the urgency of addressing malnutrition as a fundamental challenge to human capital development and national prosperity,” the minister said.

Salako disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was prioritising nutrition as part of efforts to achieve tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians as well as secure a prosperous future for the coming generations.

He said the re-inauguration of the National Advisory Committee on Micronutrient Deficiency and Control and the revival of the National Micronutrient Conference reflected renewed government commitment to tackling malnutrition.

“The biennial conference will serve as a platform to review progress in micronutrient interventions, identify implementation gaps, mobilise resources and strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration,” he said.

The minister also disclosed that the federal government had put in place some interventions.

He said some of the interventions include multiple micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women, Vitamin A supplementation for children, food fortification, salt iodisation, and maternal, infant and young child nutrition programmes.

He therefore emphasised stronger food systems, expanded coverage at sub-national levels and sustained collaboration across sectors to eliminate nutritional deficiencies.

“No single sector can end malnutrition alone. It requires collective action to build resilient nutrition systems that support healthy, productive lives,” Salako said.